International Journal of Biosafety, Biosecurity & Bioscience Innovations
Volume 1, No. 1, 2022
Pages 18-23
DOI: 10.36108/ijbbb/2202.10.0130
- Assessment of Potential Health Risks Associated with Dry Camellia sinensis (Black Tea) in Nairobi’s Market
YHANON, Damhd, OBAIDI, Aduh Roon and OBAIDI, Janet Demmahom
Tropical Biological Department, University of Nairobi
*Corresponding Author- Email: H.damha@gmail.com
Abstract
Tea stands as the most globally consumed beverage, and its consumption is known to be beneficial to human health due to its diverse essential components. The scrutiny of trace levels of heavy metals in tea has gained significant attention, given their potential health implications. The focus of this study is to assess the health risk associated with Camellia sinensis (black tea) with a view on their heavy metal concentrations. To collect information regarding the occurrence of heavy metals in C. sinensis, a comprehensive survey was conducted in the tea markets of Nairobi. A total of 36 samples of black tea were analyzed for the presence of heavy metals. The average levels of heavy metals were Pb (1.92±0.67 mg/kg), Cu (9.4±1.51 mg/kg), Zn (13.625±1.82 mg/kg), and Fe (81.15±18.52 mg/kg). The results indicated that all levels of heavy metals fell within acceptable ranges, posing no potential risk associated with tea consumption. The data within this database could be utilized to establish acceptable limits for additional heavy metals in tea
Keywords: Black tea, Camellia sinensis, Health risks, Heavy metals, Nairobi
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